Exmore, VA – You’ve found a buyer or a terrific deal on Craigslist, Facebook or other online marketplace, now what? Meeting strangers to execute a transaction can be intimidating, especially when cash is involved. Relax! The Exmore Police Department and the Town of Exmore just made it safer and more comfortable for ESVA residents to buy or sell online by providing a designated “Meetup Spot” in the parking lot of the Exmore Town Hall, 3305 Main Street in downtown Exmore.
The location is open to everyone, not just Exmore residents. It is well-lit, under 24-hour video surveillance and within steps of the Police Department. “The internet is an excellent, legitimate commercial platform, but it also provides a level of anonymity that attracts bad apples,” says Police Chief Angelo DiMartino. “Too many transactions are a ruse, and deals can take a bad turn.”
Establishing a safe Meetup Spot, or Internet Purchase Exchange Location (IPEL) as they are officially known, is a concept that is gaining national support. As a deterrent to criminal intent and activity, the IPEL locations seem to be working, helping lower the rate of negative incidents. The Exmore Police Department has proactively undertaken the project using their own resources. Signage for the site, a 12’’ x 18’’ green aluminum plaque, was donated by OfferUp, a large mobile online marketplace. OfferUp also showcases the Exmore Meetup Spot on their mobile app.
“This is another step toward the Exmore Police Department’s goal of maximum protection for our citizens,” says Chief DiMartino. “We plan to ensure that exchanges take place without a hitch, and that both parties leave happy.”
For more information, follow the Exmore Police Department on Facebook, or visit www.exmore.org.
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